Installing Lightroom presets is usually quick once you know which file type you received and which Lightroom version you use. This guide walks you through XMP and DNG installation on mobile and desktop, plus Adobe Camera Raw in Photoshop.
Before you begin
- Download your preset files and keep the original ZIP as a backup.
- Check whether your purchase includes XMP, DNG or older LRTemplate files.
- Update Lightroom before importing if a menu option is missing.
- Do not import preview images or instruction PDFs as presets.
How to install XMP presets in Lightroom Mobile
- Download the ZIP or XMP files to your phone or tablet.
- Open Lightroom Mobile and open any photograph.
- Open Presets, then the preset options menu.
- Choose Import Presets.
- Select the downloaded XMP files or ZIP archive and confirm the import.
- Find the new preset set under your user presets and apply it to a photograph.
Menu wording can vary slightly by device and app version. Adobe maintains the current Lightroom Mobile preset instructions.
How to install DNG presets in Lightroom Mobile
DNG installation is useful when a preset pack includes editable DNG photographs rather than XMP files.
- Import the supplied DNG image into Lightroom Mobile.
- Open the DNG and choose Create Preset from the menu.
- Name the preset and place it in a new or existing preset group.
- Select the settings included in the DNG and save the preset.
- Open your own photograph and apply the new preset from the Presets panel.
For the current workflow, see Adobe's DNG preset guide.
How to install presets in Lightroom Classic
- Open Lightroom Classic and switch to the Develop module.
- In the Presets panel, select the plus icon and choose Import Presets.
- Select the XMP files or the supplied ZIP archive.
- Confirm the import. The presets will appear in the Presets panel.
Adobe documents this process in its Lightroom Classic preset guide.
How to install presets in Lightroom Desktop
- Open Lightroom on your computer and select a photograph.
- Open the Presets panel.
- Use the panel menu and choose Import Presets.
- Select the XMP files or ZIP archive and confirm.
- Find the imported set under your presets.
How to install presets in Photoshop and Adobe Camera Raw
- Open a RAW photograph in Photoshop so that Adobe Camera Raw opens.
- Open the Presets panel.
- Use the panel menu and choose Import Profiles & Presets.
- Select the XMP files or ZIP archive and confirm.
- Restart Photoshop if the new preset set does not appear immediately.
Why a preset looks different on every photograph
A preset is a starting point, not a one-click replacement for editing. Camera profile, white balance, exposure, light direction, coat or fur colour and the surrounding landscape all affect the result. After applying a preset, adjust exposure and white balance first. Then refine highlights, shadows and subject masks if needed.
Tips for horse, pet, wildlife and outdoor photography
- Protect detail in white coats, bright skies and sunlit fur by checking highlights.
- Lift shadows carefully on dark coats instead of flattening the entire image.
- Use subject masks selectively so the animal remains natural.
- Check fur, foliage and earth tones at 100% before exporting.
- Save your personal adjustments as a new preset instead of overwriting the original.
Common import problems
The ZIP file does not appear
Try selecting the ZIP directly first. If Lightroom does not recognise it, extract the archive and import the XMP files inside.
The preset was imported but is missing
Check all preset groups and make sure partially compatible presets are not hidden. Restart Lightroom after importing.
The result is too bright, dark or colourful
Correct exposure and white balance before changing individual colour settings. Presets react to the original photograph and are designed to be refined.
Frequently asked questions
Do Lightroom presets work on JPEG files?
Yes, but RAW files usually offer more room for exposure, colour and highlight recovery. A preset may therefore require stronger adjustments on a JPEG.
Can I use one purchase on mobile and desktop?
Use the file formats included with the specific product and the compatible Adobe apps listed on its product page. Keep your original download so you can install it again on your own devices.
Are CanterCanvas examples AI-generated?
No. CanterCanvas presets are developed and demonstrated with real photographs. We do not use AI-generated pictures as before-and-after proof, so you can judge the editing style on genuine horse, pet, wildlife and outdoor photography.
Where can I find CanterCanvas presets?
Browse the CanterCanvas preset collection for individual looks and larger bundles for horse, pet, wildlife and outdoor photography.
What if the import still does not work?
Check the file type, update Lightroom and try the steps again. If you still need help, contact presets [at] moodyequines.com (replace [at] with @) and include your device, Lightroom version and product name.
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